Last Updated: September 1st, 2020
The Realness: The team at Tastemakers prides ourselves in being in the know. We are connected to governments, travel authorities, and cultural icons across the Continent. We also work with our curators to keep up to date on what the tourist experience looks like in every country our travelers explore. With that said, we are not health experts. The CDC warns that "Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19," and the US State Department advises citizens to "avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19." Your decision to travel in these times is up to you. If you decide to travel again, we hope you use the best possible information (psst - we recommend the Africa CDC) to make sure you do so as safely as possible. And whenever you do decide to travel, we'll be here with the insider information to (safely) connect you to the culture, the Continent, and the Diaspora.
With Covid-19 growing worse in the U.S. we know even your longest term travel plans are being re-worked. No matter what your approach is to making new plans, we're here to help.
To those staying home for the next few months: we get it and we're with you. If you're still looking to explore your journey to the Continent from home, you can catch us at The Thread, Tastemakers monthly-ish series of conversations unpacking the potential for Pan-Africanism in a post-"Year of Return" moment for the culture.
To those ditching the next international trip and jumping in the car: we got you too. We're all for sharing our tips on the best culture and experiences across the U.S. and will keep adding wisdom to the journal.
And to those planning that next trip to the continent, here are destinations still accepting U.S. travelers. We also keep a real-time database of all open borders across Africa. ๐ check it here in the journal.
1. United States (no, really)
Ok, we know this isn't the African destination you've been dreaming of, far from it. But depending on where you are, a road trip might be your best option. We especially love following our friend Jessica Nabongo's road trip across the country. And if you're looking to support those Black-owned businesses in every corner of the states, we recommend following our friend Marty Santiago who's been updating the famous green book travel guide for the present day.
Status for U.S. Travelers: Open, with restrictions
Restrictions: Some US states recommend Quarantining upon arrival; More information here
Insider Level: ๐๐
2. Tanzania
Tanzania is open for tourists. If you're looking for some socially-distant beachside luxury and beauty, then Zanzibar might be your next move. We recommend you follow our friend Justa Lujwangana of Curious on Tanzania for some ideas on your next trip. Until then, Daron Bandeira will keep you dreaming of visiting the Tanzania coast.
Status for U.S. Travelers: Open, with restrictions
Restrictions: Valid negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before departure; Possible health screening upon arrival
Insider Level: ๐
3. Rwanda
As of August 1st, Rwanda is open for all tourists. Testing before and after your flight is mandatory, but there is no mandatory quarantine. If Kigali is too crowded, you can catch some paradise by planning a trek out to Gisenyi.
Status for U.S. Travelers: Open, with restrictions
Restrictions: Valid negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before departure; COVID-19 test upon arrival (and quarantine at your hotel until the results come back)
Insider Level: ๐๐๐
4. Egypt
Egypt relaxed travel restrictions for all travelers on July 1st. On our list of #africandreamscapes, and on your bucket list are the great pyramids. If you're up for an adventure, we recommend Egypt.
Status for U.S. Travelers: Open, with restrictions
Restrictions: We believe a valid negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before departure; Temperature checks upon arrival
Insider Level: ๐๐
Wherever your travel plans take you: the Continent, the U.S., or your couch ๐, we'll be here with travel information, inspiration, and community. If you don't already, you can follow us on the gram for weekly doses of travel. And if you're looking to connect across the Diaspora without airplanes, the Tastemakers Membership might be a good place to start.
Until we can all convene again - explore, enjoy, and stay safe โ๏ธ